History / About
The Beginners was Russell’s cheapest promotional model, introduced in Australia in 1961 alongside the Championship. Made of tin metal (later transitioning to plastic in final runs), the string was tied directly to the axle, meaning the yo-yo could not sleep — only Gravity Pull was possible. It was used in Coca-Cola campaigns as a low-cost give-away for young children. Manufactured in Hong Kong, it was discontinued around 1978 when the Spinner model took over the budget tier. The tin version is now a prized collector’s item.
